HMS Westminster has handed over her Op Kipion duties in the Indian Ocean to her sister ship HMS Somerset and is heading home, due for return at the end of the month.
The frigate rounded off her six-month deployment with a final replenishment at sea with US Naval Ship (USNS) Alan Shepard.
While keeping shipping lanes safe from pirates and drug lords the ship refuelled at sea 16 times with various vessels. Petty Officer (Marine Engineer) Jason Yates said:
“During the course of this deployment we have had many challenges thrown at the Marine Engineering Department. Due to our steely determination and ‘can do’ attitude, we haven’t missed a day on task due to the challenges we have faced.”
The deployment saw HMS Westminster hone her submarine-hunting skills and engagement with the regional navies in an effort to boost interoperability and cooperation.
Over the next six months, HMS Somerset will be working in support of EU, NATO and coalition forces to undertake security patrols across the Mediterranean Sea, Indian Ocean and Gulf Region.
Before reaching her post, Somerset dropped her anchor in Gibraltar for replenishment. The deployment comes in the aftermath of HMS Somerset’s £21 million pound refit, which renewed her operational capability and restored her full readiness.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, February 13, 2014; Image: Royal Navy